View all documented uses for Thuja plicata Donn ex D. Don
Scientific name: Thuja plicata Donn ex D. Don
USDA symbol: THPL (View details at USDA PLANTS site)
Common names: Western Redcedar
Family: Cupressaceae
Family (APG): Cupressaceae
Native American Tribe: Thompson
Use category: Fiber
Use sub-category: Basketry
Notes: Split roots made into coiled, water tight baskets and used for boiling food. The outer strips of the roots were used to make the bottom of the basket, the center core was used in the coils and the bark of the roots was used for making the edges because of its toughness. The roots could not be harvested in the winter because it was too difficult to scrape the bark off of the stiff, brown roots. In the spring and early fall, the bark was more easily removed and the roots were white.